Frequently Asked Questions About Antidepressants

How do antidepressants work?

Antidepressants help to restore the chemical balance in the brain. Specifically, these medications target neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, that affect mood. Antidepressants help to improve mood and can help decrease symptoms of anxiety. Sometimes, anxiety can either be the result of depression, or can cause depression. One disorder may cause symptoms of the other disorder to worsen. By helping to lift mood, these medications can help to break the cycle of depression and anxiety. Besides depression and anxiety, antidepressants are also sometimes used to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS), chronic pain disorders, such as fibromyalgia, and eating disorders.

See: How Antidepressants are Used to Treat Anxiety

Are all antidepressants the same?

There are several types of antidepressants:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

            Examples: Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac

Tricyclic antidepressants

            Examples: Elavil, Sinequan, Tofranil, Anafranil

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

            Examples: Marplan, Parnate

Other Types

            Examples: Wellbutrin, Effexor, Desyrel, Remeron

Each of these types of medications works differently.

Today, most antidepressants prescribed are SSRIs. However, all of these medications will work differently and each person reacts to medication differently, so there is no "right" or "wrong" medication. Many times, it is a matter of trial and error to find the right medication and the right dosage for you.

See: Anxiety Medications

How long do I need to take antidepressants before seeing improvement?

Most of the time, antidepressants begin to work between two and six weeks after a person has begun to take them. Usually, symptoms such as insomnia or loss of appetite begin to improve first.  Improvements in both mood and energy should begin to appear by the time you have been taking the medication for six weeks. If you do not feel any improvement after six weeks, you should speak with your doctor. He or she may want to adjust your dosage.

What should I do if I forget to take a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, you should ignore the dose and take the next dose at the normal time. You should not double up or take two doses close together without first speaking with your doctor.

Can I drink alcohol while taking antidepressants?

In some people, mixing alcohol and antidepressants can cause dangerous interactions or the effect of the alcohol could be intensified. Some people may feel more depressed or cause the medication to not work, bringing back symptoms of depression. Certain types of antidepressants (MAOIs) can cause serious complications when combined with alcohol. It can create a spike in blood pressure and possible stroke. You should speak with your doctor if you intend to drink alcohol while taking these medications.